23/03/2023
Psst.. just a quick PSA on LATEX ALLERGIES
Allergies to latex have been increasingly recognised over the last few years. While the cause for the increase is uncertain, it is possible that the use of latex gloves in healthcare settings and increasing exposure to latex may be the reason.
Those with other allergies as well as asthma, hay fever and eczema are more likely to develop a latex allergy over those without other ailments.
What is latex?
Latex or natural rubber is the substance obtained from the sap of the Hevea brasiliensis tree (Rubber Tree). It is often found in the form of latex gloves, Balloons, Erasers, Condoms and diaphragms, Rubber household gloves, Medical gloves,
Catheters, Dental products (wedges, orthodontic rubber bands), Elastic in clothing and even baby dummies (pacifier/binky/soother).
Some of the proteins that are found in latex can also be found in other fruits and plants, including avocado, banana, chestnut, kiwifruit, passionfruit, plum, strawberry and tomato.
Immediate or IgE reactions to Latex can include hives, itchiness, swelling of face/lips/tongue, allergic rhinitis or asthma-like symptoms, allergic contact dermatitis, and even ANAPHYLAXIS.
Anaphylaxis is the most severe type of allergic reaction and should always be treated as a medical emergency. Anaphylaxis requires immediate treatment with adrenaline (epinephrine), which is injected into the outer mid-thigh muscle. Delayed treatment can result in fatal anaphylaxis.
What to do if you’re allergic to latex:
✔️ Avoid all forms of latex, and particularly avoid latex coming near your skin, face, eyes, nose or throat. Latex substitutes can be used if required.
✔️ Be aware that some condoms and diaphragms used for contraception contain latex and should be avoided. Latex-free condoms can be found in stores and websites.
✔️ Wear a medical identification bracelet, stating you are allergic to latex. If you are unconscious or confused and need emergency treatment, the nurses and doctors will be made aware of this.
✔️ Carry your own supply of non-latex gloves (such as vinyl or synthetic rubber), in case of an emergency.
✔️ Advise doctors and dentists well in advance of any surgical operation, dental treatment, Pap smear, blood tests or x-ray to ensure that latex is not used.
✔️ Use vinyl or synthetic rubber gloves, if it is necessary to wear gloves.
✔️ Avoid takeaway food which is prepared or served by food handlers wearing latex gloves.
✔️Consider avoiding occupations where latex is very difficult to avoid such as nursing, dentistry, medicine, veterinary science, hairdressing or food preparation.
Here are some ingredient names to watch for, all of which indicate the presence of latex:
- Natural Rubber Latex
- Natural Latex Rubber
- Rubber Latex
- Natural Latex
- Latex Rubber
- Natural Centrifuged Latex
- Natural Liquid Latex
- Aqueous Latex Adhesive
- Latex
Do you or someone you know have a latex allergy? What are some of your day-to-day precautions or tips that you can share?
